The Background Checks That Should Always Be Considered

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by: Arthor Greenwald
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Word Count: 345
Date: Sun, 28 Feb 2010 Time: 1:32 AM
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When it comes to background checks, there are several main ones that should always be undertaken before a new employee is hired. They ensure that the candidate is 100%truthful and that the right decision was made, and here are just a few of the most vital background checks that every employer should conduct.

•Education/qualification checks. Conducting education checks ensures that the candidate was truthful in where they were educated, and can be particularly important if they need a specific degree or qualification to be given the job. Verifying their credentials not only means that they were truthful but also makes sure that they’re qualified for the job in hand.

•Employment history/reference checks. These checks make sure that the candidate has the experience necessary for the job, and also ensures that they didn’t lie about their previous employment. Checking up on references is a vital step to make sure they can be verified, as taking them at face value can often be a mistake.

•Criminal records checks. This is an essential part of all background checks, as people may not always be willing to disclose any previous convictions. This is even more important if the employee is to work with sensitive information or indeed with vulnerable people, and criminal records checks ensure that there’s no danger (to the business or the clients) of them being in that position.

•Passport/driving licence checks. These checks not only make sure that the employee is who they say they are, but also ensure that they’re eligible to work in the UK, an essential consideration in today’s multicultural society.

No-one likes to think that people lie but unfortunately not everyone is who, or what, they seem to be, making background checks all the more important to consider. Employers should always undertake thorough screening of potential employees, preferably through a professional service such as PeopleChecking, and doing so will put their mind at ease that they’ve chosen the right candidate for the job.